The N.C. Cooperative Extension, Pamlico County Center will be offering the next NC State Extension Master Gardener℠ Training Course from April 14 – May 28, 2026. Space is limited so if you are interested in taking the course, please fill out an application following the link below!

Applications will be open from Wednesday, February 11 – Tuesday, April 7, 2026.

About the Program

The 2026 Pamlico Extension Master Gardener℠ Training Course is a comprehensive 40-hour program designed to prepare participants for volunteer service with N.C. Cooperative Extension. This hands-on course covers essential horticultural topics, including botany, plant propagation, pest management, beekeeping, and more. Participants will dive into the Master Gardener handbook, engage in practical, hands-on learning, and experience a dynamic mix of lectures, field trips, and online practice.

Class Schedule

• Tuesdays &  Thursdays from 9:00am – 12:00pm
• Location: N.C. Cooperative Extension, Pamlico County Center, 13724 NC Hwy. 55, Bayboro, NC 28515

Course Fee

• $135 per participant (covers training materials and your copy of the Master Gardener Training Manual)
• Due: Tuesday, April 14th
• Payment options: Credit card or check

Topics Covered

• How Plants Grow & Starting Seeds
• Understanding Soil Fertility & Improvements
• Small Fruit & Tree Fruit Production
• Home Vegetable Gardening
• Lawn & Weed Management
• Insect & Disease Management
• Ornamental Plant Care & Plant Propagation
• Practical Problem Solving for Homeowners & Master Gardeners

Course Syllabus

• 2026 Master Gardener Training Course Class Syllabus

If you have questions or want to know more about Pamlico County Master Gardener Volunteer program, please give us a call at (252) 745-4121.

Application & Training Fee

Interested candidates must complete an application. Once accepted, participants will need to register and pay a $135 training fee by the first week of class. This fee covers all training materials, including the Master Gardener Training Manual.

Trainee Qualifications

Master Gardener trainees should have:

• A basic knowledge of and interest in gardening
• Strong communication skills
• Enthusiasm for learning and sharing horticultural knowledge
• A desire to build relationships within Pamlico County communities
• Representation from underserved communities (both rural and urban)
• An interest in supporting the EMG Volunteer Program’s goals of food security and environmental stewardship

Requirements to Become an Extension Master Gardener

To earn the title of Extension Master Gardener, participants must:

1. Successfully complete this training course
2. Complete an additional 40 hours of volunteer service with Cooperative Extension

Participants who do not wish to become certified Master Gardeners are still welcome to complete the training program.

If you would like to learn more about NC State Extension Master Gardener Volunteer requirements, please visit the NC State EMG Volunteer Requirements page.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to join the program, Apply Online.

For more information, contact Daniel Simpson at 252-745-4121 or daniel_simpson@ncsu.edu.